The Radio Astronomy Centre (RAC) in Udhagamandalam in The Nilgiris is to celebrate National Science Day on February 28.“The preparations are going with full swing at the RAC, which is part of the National Centre for Radio Astrophysics (NCRA), Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), on its campus near the Muthorai village,” a release from the RAC said.The RAC operates one of the world’s largest radio telescope. As part of the event, a science model/project competition has been organised for schools in The Nilgiris as well as for colleges in The Nilgiris and Coimbatore. Nearly 110 students from 50 schools and colleges will participate in the event. The event will be inaugurated at 9 a.m. on February 28. During the event, scientists will demonstrate the Ooty Radio Telescope’s mechanical and electronics systems, watching live observations of celestial objects using telescope, observing the Sun and track its sunspots using an optical telescope, as well as showcase exhibits on the recent advances and developments in astronomy and astrophysics, among others, the release said.“The programme is open to all between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. and admission is free. Published - February 26, 2026 05:24 pm IST